Systems Analyst Interview Questions & Answers


A systems analyst designs new IT solutions to improve business efficiency and productivity. The work might be for an external client or an internal client (such as a department within the same organisation). Working closely with the client, Systems analysts examine existing business models and flows of data, discuss their findings with the client, and design an appropriate improved IT solution. They act as the liaison between the client and the developers.

Systems analysts produce outline designs and costings of new systems, specifying the operations the system will perform, and the way data will be viewed by the end-user, present their design to the client and, once it is approved, work closely with the client team to implement the solution.

Whether you're a job seeker preparing to be interviewed for the role of Systems Analyst or an employer preparing to interview candidates for Systems Analyst position, these Systems Analyst interview questions will help you prepare yourself for the job interview session.

Systems Analyst Interview Questions

Below are a list of some skill-based Systems Analyst interview questions.

  1. Walk me through your process of analyzing an existing system.
  2. What do you think is the most important thing for businesses to keep in mind when implementing new systems?
  3. How would you manage frequent changes in user requirements?
  4. Do you have any experience with CASE tools? If so, can you tell me about a project you used them on?
  5. How do you persuade a doubtful manager to get on board with your suggestions?
  6. How would you reconcile different opinions on the deployment date of a new program?
  7. What SAP software applications have you used?
  8. What is a DHCP server?
  9. How do you explain user scenarios in a technical document?
  10. Can you tell me about a time when you had to lead a team of analysts or programmers?
  11. What’s the difference between technical and functional requirements? How do you gather each?
  12. How do you perform a software audit on a PC or Mac?
  13. Do you have experience designing a new system with limited resources? If so, how did you do it?
  14. Describe a time when you worked with a team to tackle a tough project. What was your role?
  15. Describe a time when you had to deliver a presentation. How did you explain technical details to a non-technical audience?
  16. Have you ever implemented a cost-reducing system? What was it and how did you come up with the suggestion?
  17. Tell me about a time when you made a recommendation that was successfully implemented.
  18. Tell me about a time when you made a recommendation that was rejected. Why?
  19. Describe the biggest failure of your professional career as a systems analyst.
  20. Describe a complex system that you have designed or worked on.
  21. Tell me about a time when you had to learn about new technology.
  22. What differentiates you from other systems analysts inteviewing for this role?

Systems Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

Every interview is different and the questions may vary. However, there are lots of general questions that get asked at every interview.

Below are some common questions you'd expect during Systems Analyst interviews. Click on each question to see how to answer them.

  1. What is Your Salary Expectation?
  2. Tell Me About Yourself
  3. Are You a Leader or a Follower?
  4. Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?
  5. What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?
  6. What is Your Greatest Strength?
  7. What is Your Greatest Weakness?
  8. Why Should We Hire You?
  9. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
  10. Why Do You Want This Job?